Evaluation of ground-motion modeling techniques for use in global ShakeMap; a critique of instrumental ground-motion prediction equations, peak ground motion to macroseismic intensity conversions,; and macroseismic intensity predictions in different tectonic settings

Evaluation of ground-motion modeling techniques for use in global ShakeMap; a critique of instrumental ground-motion prediction equations, peak ground motion to macroseismic intensity conversions,; and macroseismic intensity predictions in different tectonic settings

Allen, T.I.; Wald, D.J.

U. S. Geological Survey: 114

2009

Regional differences in ground-motion attenuation have long been thought to add uncertainty in the prediction of ground motion. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that regional differences in ground-motion attenuation may not be as significant as previously thought and that the key differences between regions may be a consequence of limitations in ground-motion datasets over incomplete magnitude and distance ranges. Undoubtedly, regional differences in attenuation can exist owing to differences in crustal structure and tectonic setting, and these can contribute to differences in ground-motion attenuation at larger source-receiver distances. Herein, we examine the use of a variety of techniques for the prediction of several ground-motion metrics (peak ground acceleration and velocity, response spectral ordinates, and macroseismic intensity) and compare them against a global dataset of instrumental ground-motion recordings and intensity assignments. The primary goal of this study is to determine whether existing ground-motion prediction techniques are applicable for use in the U.S. Geological Survey's Global ShakeMap and Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response (PAGER). We seek the most appropriate ground-motion predictive technique, or techniques, for each of the tectonic regimes considered: shallow active crust, subduction zone, and stable continental region.